EC needs more time for GM discussion

After failing to meet Friday's deadline, the European Commission has been
given more time to bring EU countries on the same track regarding the
cultivation and use of GM crops.

The Commission has indicated it needs more time to
work with the member states to bring their national regulations in line with
global trade laws. The new deadline suggested by Canada is February 11.
Meanwhile, Argentina will further extend the deadline to June 11 before
considering action against Europe. US officials have not yet said if it will
also accept an extended deadline, or push for immediate
sanctions.

Member states ban GMAustria enforced a ban on the import
and processing of Monsanto's MON810 and Bayer's T25 maize in June 1999. Last
week, France complicated the matter
when it chose to extend its temporary
ban on the cultivation of MON810, applying the same EU measure by arguing the
costs to health posed by GM crops.

The Commission biotech steering group
will now meet on 24 January to further discuss the issues.